8 Best Towns in Louisiana to Visit in 2024
Louisiana was admitted to the Union in 1812, and today, the "Bayou State" continues to be one of the Southern United States' most culturally splendid and geographically unique places. Widely known for its special Cajun and French roots, Louisiana's extraordinary cuisine, music, architecture, and natural splendor is an adventure of discovery for all ages. While such centers like Baton Rouge and New Orleans will always come to mind first, Louisiana's smaller towns are too worthy of an examination. Here, all the special character of the "Bayou State" comes alive in a more intimate setting perfect for anyone looking for that slice of genuine southern Americana in 2024.
St. Francisville
Established in the early 1800s, before Louisiana became an official State, the historic town of St. Francisville remains one of the "Bayou State's" most alluring and endearing places. Home to just over 1,500 inhabitants, guests will surely get a genuine snapshot of 19th-century life across the town's numerous historic buildings, many of which are constructed in an antebellum style. Explore landmarks like the Audubon State Historic Site or the Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, where Louisiana's rich environmental features complement insights into the story of the American South.
Abbeville
Home to just over 11,000 inhabitants, Abbeville can trace its foundational history to the mid-1800s. Today, this seat of Vermillion Parish continues to be a most charming and historically rich destination where visitors can get a front-row seat to fascinating American history. Visit sites like the Residential and Downtown Historic Districts for an authentic glimpse into life in a 19th-century French missionary town across numerous landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Meanwhile, spending an afternoon at the Louisiana Military Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the most intriguing places in the State for both the casual and ardent history followers. And do not forget the very scenic Vermillion Birding Loop byway, where a chance to see special local species is sure to create memories that will not soon be forgotten.
Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge was founded in the 1820s, and today, just over 7,500 residents call it home. Affectionately known as the "Crawfish Capital of the World," some of the very best in Cajun cuisine can be found in this charming and welcoming community. Taking in the sights and smells of the famed Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival in May (or any other Cajun-themed festival throughout the year) is a cannot miss when in this town. Meanwhile, Breaux Bridge is also a naturally beautiful place to discover beyond its dining rooms. Visit Lake Martin or take a swamp tour, where opportunities to see wildlife like herons and alligators never disappoint!
Grand Isle
Located on the barrier island of the same name, the town of Grand Isle is one of Louisiana's most unique and stunning settings. With a humble population of just over 1,000 inhabitants, visitors and citizens alike enjoy plenty of splendid outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, sunbathing, and even the chance to see some wildlife. Stop by the Bridge Side Marina, where awesome ocean views meet, with a charming array of tasty local restaurants and cute novelty shops. If in the area in April, head to the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival, and be sure to do some birding while in the area, where firsthand looks at wonderful bird species (including heron) will surely make for quite a special set of memories.
Covington
Covington serves as the seat of St. Tammany Parish, and it was first established around the year 1813. Today, just under 12,000 people call this scenic place home, where outdoor lovers will surely find plenty of things to appreciate. Go for a vigorous hike, take a panoramic bike ride, or try one's hand at fishing at the nearby Lake Pontchartrain. Stop by the Tammany Race Bike Trail or spend an afternoon at the Fairview Riverside State Park, where a calming and restful outing will surely be had. Meanwhile, Covington's vast array of plant species draws tourists, while town attractions like the Copper Rooster Antiques Store are great places to find genuine old-fashioned Americana gifts.
Abita Springs
Just over 2,600 people call the family-friendly town of Abita Springs home, where together beautiful nature and special Southern charm make it a great place for discovery. A tranquil spot for outdoor activities like picnicking, cycling, and hiking, Abita Springs is also an excellent cultural outing, where locales like the Children's Museum of St. Tammany and the Abita Mystery House Museum will surely get one excited. Filled with fun, games, and loads of welcoming hospitality, these amusing stopovers and the town's incredible assortment of tasty local eateries, like Maple Street Bakery, ensure a visit to Abita Springs is a nice little road stop for anyone in St. Tammany Parish.
Natchitoches
Named for the Indigenous people, the town of Natchitoches was founded in 1714 as part of the greater colony of New France. Today, this seat of the same name Parish is home to just over 18,000 inhabitants, where all ages can enjoy loads of historical intrigue. Explore the famed Fort St. Jean Baptiste Historic Site for a fascinating information on the daily life of a French settlement in the 18th century. This is one living history site not to be missed.
At the nearby Cane River National Heritage Area and the Kisatchie National Forest, splendid vistas of Louisiana's beloved bayous and scenic forests make for a photographer's paradise. Christmas lovers cannot miss Natchitoches' celebrated Christmas Festival, where much of the town is all decked out in decorations and lights, and loads of Yuletide shops and vendors fill the streets.
Minden
Minden serves as Webster Parish's seat, founded in 1836. A splendid locale to enjoy Louisiana's extraordinary outdoor wonders, locals and visitors alike enjoy popular destinations like the Caney Lakes Recreation Area, where some of the very best of camping, hiking, and fishing can be enjoyed under the beautiful Louisiana sky. Meanwhile, at the Germantown Colony Museum, an insightful look at Minden's foundational history gives guests a unique perspective on the development of the State in a beautifully forested ambiance. With hot summers and mild winters, exploring this cute town is always a good time.
One of the Southern United States' most historically, culturally, and geographically rich places, the "Bayou State" of Louisiana is an undoubted jewel of America. Though cities like New Orleans continue to rightfully attract much attention, Louisiana's other smaller towns should certainly not be overlooked. Here, the elements that make the State truly special are on full display in more intimate settings that offer Americana in a different light. From the crawfish capital of Breaux Bridge to the historic ambiance of Natchitoches, these and other small Louisiana towns will add to one's appreciation of this extraordinary State.
